What does it mean to restore?
Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation - Lesson 6, Restore with Gentleness, Question 8, p. 88
The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of restoring those who have strayed or fallen into sin. This theme is evident in several passages, presenting both the individuals in need of restoration and those called to restore them.
Matthew 18:15
"If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother."
In this passage, the one who needs to be restored is the brother who has sinned. The person called to restore is the one who has been wronged. This call to restoration is deeply personal and intimate, urging the aggrieved to approach the sinner directly and privately, with the goal of reconciliation and healing.
Philippians 4:2-3
"I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life."
Here, Euodia and Syntyche are the individuals in need of restoration. Paul calls upon a true companion, likely a trusted member of the Philippian church, to assist in their reconciliation. This scenario highlights the role of the community in fostering unity and peace among believers, especially those who have worked fervently for the gospel.
James 5:19-20
"My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins."
In James, the one needing restoration is anyone who has wandered from the truth. The restorer is any member of the Christian community who notices the sinner's deviation and takes action to guide them back. The emphasis here is on the profound impact of such restoration, not only saving the sinner's soul but also covering many sins.
Gospel Encouragement from Romans 8:1
"There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
This powerful assurance from Romans serves as gospel encouragement for everyone involved in the process of restoration. It reminds us that, despite our failings, there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ. This truth should inspire and comfort us as we strive to restore others, knowing that we, too, are recipients of God's grace and mercy.
The call to restore others is a divine mandate that reflects the heart of God. Whether it's confronting a brother in sin, mediating between fellow workers in the gospel, or guiding those who have wandered from the truth, restoration is an act of love and obedience. And through it all, we are upheld by the promise of no condemnation in Christ Jesus.
This blog series is adapted from Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation. You can experience this teaching in several ways:
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